TOP SHELF

THE MOST INGENIOUS PRODUCTS THAT HAVE COME ACROSS OUR DESKS THUS FAR THIS YEAR.

Jules Zecchino, cofounder of BioMimetic Laboratories, which created ERASA SKINCARE, spent decades developing some of Estée Lauder’s greatest skincare innovations. With XEP-30 Extreme Line Lifting and Rejuvenation Concentrate ($250), he wanted to tackle various issues (like pigmentation and wrinkles) that are usually relegated to separate product lines. Linda Evangelista, who liked the product so much that she joined the company, told us she uses it in lieu of Botox and credits it with getting rid of her melasma. Scientific studies on BIOEFFECT’s barley-based replica of human epidermal growth factor (EGF) show near-mythical results. In a double-blind, placebo-controlled study done by a third party, users saw a whopping 60-percent increase in skin thickness and a 30-percent increase in skin density. The Iceland company’s latest launch, EGF + 2A Daily Treatment ($320), pairs its EGF with ferulic and azelaic acids to counter free radicals caused by pollution and sunlight. PHYTOSOLBA LABORATORIES is the first to release a product with RE30, a breakthrough peptide that re-pigments grey hair by stimulating melanin-producing enzymes and blocking naturally produced hydrogen peroxide from stripping colour. There are limitations: It works best on those who are just beginning to notice greys, with less than 30 percent of hair affected. Phyto RE30 ($59) must be misted on hair daily for three months to see results. (Note: One bottle is a onemonth supply.) For details, see Shopping Guide. †